Clicks & Bricks Podcast

11/14/2025

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with David Hrizak, co-founder and CEO of The Streamline Company, to explore his remarkable journey in the real estate industry. From humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago to navigating the challenges of the Great Recession, David shares his experiences and the lessons learned along the way. Discover how he transformed adversity into opportunity, the importance of community relationships, and his vision for the future of real estate investing. Whether you're an aspiring investor or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insights into building wealth and resilience in the ever-evolving real estate market. Visit thestreamlinecompanies.com to learn more about David's ventures, and don't forget to check out clicksandbricks.tv for more engaging content.

10/31/2025

In this engaging episode, we welcome Renée Puvvada, founder of Smokin' Hot Books, to discuss her journey from self-publishing setbacks to achieving bestseller status. Renée delves into the art of book marketing, shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the power of authenticity in building a successful business. Tune in to learn how she guides authors through the self-publishing maze, helping them transform their passion into profitable ventures. Visit Smokin' Hot Books at https://smokin-hotbooks.com to learn more about Renée's work. Don't forget to check out Clicks and Bricks TV at https://clicksandbricks.tv for more inspiring content.

10/24/2025

In this episode of Clicks and Bricks, host Ken Cox sits down with Justin Kuyper from OpenVest to explore the democratization of investment opportunities. Justin shares his journey from the exclusive world of private equity to creating a platform that opens up high-return investments to the everyday person. They discuss the importance of fiduciary responsibility, the impact of compounding interest, and how OpenVest is changing the landscape of financial access. Tune in to learn how you can start investing with as little as $300 and why this could be a game-changer for your financial future. Visit openvest.co to learn more and join the waitlist if OpenVest isn't available in your state yet.

10/15/2025

Join host Ken Cox on "Clicks and Breaks" as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Steve Frazier, the author of "Release the Coffee Cuffs." Explore the complexities of caffeine addiction and the path to healthier living. Steve shares his journey and insights, offering practical advice for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake. Don't miss this episode if you're curious about the impact of caffeine on your life. For more engaging content, visit ClicksandBricks.tv and explore Steve's work at ReleaseTheCoffeeCuffs.com.

10/10/2025

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Jason VanDevere, who transitioned from his family's car dealership to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author. Discover his insights on goal setting, personal growth, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Don't miss out on the valuable lessons shared in this episode!
🔗 Watch "Clicks and Bricks Podcast" on YouTube: Clicks and Bricks Podcast YouTube Channel
🔗 Explore Jason VanDevere's Work:
Dream Driven Book on Amazon: Dream Driven Goal Crazy Planners: Goal Crazy
Tune in for an episode filled with motivation and actionable advice!

10/03/2025

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Scott Gilbert, founder of Aesthetic Flight, to explore the dynamic world of med spas. Scott shares his journey from medical sales to becoming a successful entrepreneur, revealing the challenges and triumphs along the way. Discover his strategies for navigating business growth, the importance of client onboarding, and how focusing on solutions rather than treatments can transform the industry. Whether you're in the med spa business or simply curious about entrepreneurship, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Tune in to learn how Scott is redefining success in the med spa world.

09/26/2025

In this exciting episode of Clicks and Breaks, host Ken Cox sits down for an engaging conversation with Mike Swenson, a leading expert from crisistrack.com, to delve into the fascinating and essential art of crisis management. Throughout the episode, Mike shares his remarkable journey, detailing his evolution from an aspiring broadcast journalist with big dreams to a seasoned public relations expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience. He offers invaluable insights into the critical importance of building resilience in business and how it can make all the difference when facing unexpected challenges.
In this episode, Ken Cox interviews Mike Swenson from crisistrack.com about crisis management and strategic communication. Mike shares his journey from a broadcast journalist to a PR expert, discussing the importance of crisis planning and how businesses can prepare for unexpected challenges. The conversation covers the five essential steps to effective crisis management and the role of strategic communication in safeguarding a brand's reputation.
Keywords
crisis management, strategic communication, PR, entrepreneurship, business resilience
Takeaways
Crisis planning should never wait, even for startups.Effective crisis management involves five key steps.Strategic communication is vital in safeguarding a brand's reputation.Delegating crisis management roles is crucial for CEOs.Cause marketing can be a powerful tool for businesses.Understanding and owning your role is key to leadership.Blunt honesty is essential in crisis communication.Opportunities often arise from unexpected challenges.Building a positive credibility savings account is important.Every communication should have a strategy.Title Options
Navigating Crises: Insights from Mike SwensonCrisis Management Mastery with Mike SwensonFrom Broadcast to Boardroom: Mike Swenson's JourneyBuilding Resilience: Crisis Planning for EntrepreneursThe Power of Preparedness: Lessons from Crisis TrackStrategic Communication: Safeguarding Your BrandCrisis Track: A Blueprint for Business ResilienceMike Swenson on Crisis Management and PRTurning Pitfalls into Opportunities with Mike SwensonCrisis Planning Essentials for EntrepreneursSound bites
Crisis planning should never wait.Effective crisis management involves five steps.Strategic communication safeguards your brand.Delegating roles is crucial for CEOs.Cause marketing is a powerful tool.Own your role in leadership.Blunt honesty is essential in crisis.Opportunities arise from challenges.Build a positive credibility account.Every communication needs a strategy.Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction to Crisis Management00:03:00 Mike Swenson's Journey00:09:00 Five Steps to Crisis Management00:15:00 The Role of Strategic Communication00:21:00 Cause Marketing and Business Resilience00:27:00 Leadership and Delegation in Crisis00:33:00 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

09/18/2025

Join host Ken Cox in this insightful episode of "Clicks and Bricks" as he chats with James Hilovsky from thefrandream.com. Dive into the dynamic world of franchising, uncovering the essential steps to start your own franchise and the critical importance of thorough research. James shares his unique journey, including collaborations with NFL players and navigating the restaurant industry. Whether you're an aspiring franchisee or simply curious about the business model, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Explore more episodes at clicksandbricks.tv.

09/12/2025

Summary
In this episode, Ken Cox interviews Kelly Mason, the founder of Kula Paradise, an educational platform focused on personal growth and community. Kelly shares her transformative journey from a near-fatal accident to discovering her healing powers and creating impactful programs for individuals seeking self-discovery. The conversation explores themes of entrepreneurship, creativity in filmmaking, environmental advocacy, and the importance of serving others. Kelly emphasizes the significance of curiosity, relationships, and leadership in both personal and professional realms, while also discussing her future projects and aspirations in the film industry.

08/29/2025

Summary
In this conversation, Ken Cox and Al Kushner explore the transformative impact of AI on LinkedIn optimization and business outreach. Al shares insights from his book, 'The AI LinkedIn Advantage,' discussing how AI can enhance profiles, improve outreach strategies, and establish thought leadership. They delve into practical tips for leveraging AI in professional networking and the importance of embracing technology in today's business landscape.

Keywords
AI, LinkedIn, optimization, outreach, thought leadership, business, technology, profiles, marketing, content creation

Takeaways
Al Kushner has been using LinkedIn for 20 years and wrote 'The AI LinkedIn Advantage.'AI can optimize LinkedIn profiles to make impactful first impressions.Creativity is enhanced through AI, allowing for unique expressions.Mistakes lead to better outcomes; AI encourages experimentation.AI can help create compelling content for LinkedIn.Optimizing your LinkedIn profile is crucial for making connections.AI technology can assist in writing and editing content.The intersection of AI and business is a growing opportunity.Embracing AI can save time and improve outreach effectiveness.The future of business will heavily involve AI technology.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI and LinkedIn Optimization05:29 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Knowledge10:16 Leveraging AI for Business and Networking13:58 The Future of AI in Everyday Life18:58 Practical Tips for LinkedIn Optimization22:11 Final Thoughts and Resources24:15 S4E2 - OUtroKens AI LINkden tipo.mp4

08/22/2025

Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the world of nonprofit communications with Kate Viana, founder of Viana Communications. Discover how Kate's passion for giving back and her expertise in writing led to the creation of a unique ecosystem designed to support nonprofits at every stage. From AI-powered communication templates to tackling cultural issues, learn how Viana Communications is making a difference for small and mid-sized nonprofits. Tune in to explore the challenges and triumphs of running multiple brands and the importance of culture in sustaining nonprofit success.

08/15/2025

🚀 NEW EPISODE: 18 Minutes a Day to Change Your Life!

We sat down with Tania Khazaal (aka Tania the Herbalist) to talk about the power of small, consistent actions—and how just 18 minutes a day can transform your mindset, business, and body.

Ken Cox brings his signature no-BS energy to this one, pulling out real talk and real strategies you can use today.

🎥 Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42QHMV4EYW0

Ken Cox—two‑time Davey Award–winning podcast host, best-selling author, International Impact Award winner, The Blox Season 12 entrepreneur, and co-author with Kevin Harrington.

In this episode of the Clicks and Bricks podcast, Ken Cox interviews Tania Khazaal, known as Tanya the Herbalist. Tania shares her personal journey into herb...